In the season premiere episode, the members of New Directions compete amongst themselves to become the next star of the glee club. During open auditions, a fresh crop of students is introduced, including Marley and Jake Puckerman, Puck's half-brother. Meanwhile, Rachel has a rocky start at NYADA and struggles to please her demanding dance teacher, Cassandra July. She also meets Brody, a handsome upperclassman.

Brittany hopes the music of Britney Spears will get her out of a funk; a new friend helps Rachel adjust to life in New York.

Rachel and Kurt pay a visit to Lima as the glee club launches its production of "Grease". Meanwhile, Cassandra July returns to shake things up in Rachel's life, and Santana comes back to lend a helping hand.

Finn thinks about his future with the glee club after Sectionals are over. Elsewhere, Rachel gets ready for NYADA's winter showcase; and Kurt gets a second chance at an audition.

The members of New Directions take on the greatest hits of music icon Stevie Wonder. Meanwhile, Artie receives news that could affect his future and his mom. In New York, Rachel prepares for her "Funny Girl" callback.